★ “Smartly wrought worldbuilding aptly engages with themes of identity and equity while conjuring an atmospherically gritty London that’s at once singularly inventive and reminiscent of works by Joan Aiken, Charles Dickens, and Philip Pullman. It’s a thoughtful and well-built fantasy that’s also rollicking good fun.”—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
★ “Charles Dickens, Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials, and Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book rolled into one. Mann creates empathy for Luke, who shows clear hope and compassion for others during this evil time. The quick-witted humor and fast pace keep the entertainment factor high. Thrilling.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
“The Dickensian hardships endured by the protagonists of this mystery-adventure will appeal to young readers . . . so, too, will the characters’ resourcefulness as they follow the clues and form alliances to combat the evil they uncover. The mild supernatural elements integrate smoothly into the alternate setting, while the idea of ‘halves’ (Luke is ‘Half-Indian. Half-detective. Half-ghost’) adds a somewhat wistful theme of identity to the rollicking action.”—The Horn Book
“This fast-paced fantasy adventure will spark the imaginations of readers who enjoy superpowers, ghosts, and the paranormal.”—School Library Connection
“A fun first novel in the vein of Obert Skye and Brian Farrey.”—Booklist
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